EXPLORING THE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF MOMORDICA CHARANTIA (BITTER GOURD) IN THE MANAGEMENT OF DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

Bitter gourd is an important vegetable which has been used to control blood glucose levels. It possesses a unique set of biologically active components such as charantin, vicine and polypeptide-p that exhibit anti-oxidative and hypoglycaemic potential. Since time immemorial, herbal plants and home-grown plants have been used as a source of alternative medicines; Momordica charantia (bitter gourd) is one of them which are generally used for medicinal purposes in many countries of the world, especially in the subcontinent.

In this research, bitter gourd has been used in raw, crushed and powdered form to perform the chemical and physical analysis in which the researchers determined its moisture and ash content, crude fat, fiber and protein, nitrogen free extract (NFE) along-with the determination minerals. These experiments were done with different methods using different apparatuses. Afterwards, Momordica charantia was made into a supplement form and added in four chapattis with different concentrations to determine its effect on diabetic rats. Before experimenting, the sensory (texture, color and taste) evaluation of the chapattis was also performed.

This study confirms the significance of Momordica charantia powder in regulating sugar levels, highlighting its high nitrogen-free extract, protein, and fiber content. Moreover, the bitter gourd demonstrated higher quantities of calcium, iron, copper, and zinc compared to other minerals. Incorporating Momordica charantia into daily dietary habits can effectively lower both fasting and random blood glucose levels, showcasing its positive impact on blood sugar regulation.